Modeling Engineer

As a Modeling Engineer, you will develop and refine advanced finite element models to support structural, thermal, and materials-focused analyses. You will run complex simulations, interpret results, and turn those insights into practical design guidance. You will collaborate with teams and material scientists to align modeling approaches with real-world testing, improve predictive accuracy, and influence product development. You will also apply optimization methods, support validation efforts, and give your findings through reports and presentations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, validation, and enhancement of high-fidelity finite element models for mechanics analysis and potentially heat conduction analysis. Produce advanced model that capture multi-physics coupling, material nonlinearity, and complex boundary interactions.

• Develop and guide linear/nonlinear structural, thermal, impact, and fatigue analyses using commercial FEA tools (e.g., ABAQUS, ANSYS, LS-DYNA, COMSOL). Interpret simulation outcomes with scientific rigor to uncover fundamental failure mechanisms, improve design decisions, and establish predictive design guidelines.

• Develop and calibrate constitutive models for metals, polymers, composites, or coatings based on experimental data. Implement custom material subroutines (e.g., UMAT/VUMAT).

• Lead research efforts in model accuracy improvement, numerical stability, and computational efficiency. Explore latest numerical methods (e.g., cohesive zone modeling, phase-field fracture, multi-scale modeling) to expand simulation capabilities.

• Data-Driven & Hybrid Modeling: Integrate data analytics, machine learning, and statistical inference techniques with traditional FEA to build hybrid physics–ML models. Develop surrogate models, reduced-order representations, or Gaussian Process regressors to accelerate simulation cycles and support uncertainty quantification. Use experimental databases and simulation data to extract governing relationships, automate parameter calibration, and ensure predictive digital twins.

• Collaborate with material scientists to design validation experiments, compare simulation predictions to physical test results, and refine models for improved accuracy and predictive power.

• Work with design, manufacturing, and product development teams to translate engineering insights into applicable design or process changes.

• Prepare technical documentation, analysis reports, and presentations summarizing modeling work.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related technical subject, with CAD and FEA course studies, hands-on experience with Abaqus and Ansys tools with 1+ year related experience. OR

• An MS degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related technical subject, with CAD and FEA course studies, hands-on experience with Abaqus and Ansys tools with 5+ years related experience.

• Record of accomplishments as FEA guide: publications and conference presentations.

• Hands-on laboratory experience on mechanical experimental techniques.

• Proficiency in using commercial CAD tools.

• Must be a U.S. Person as defined by U.S. export control regulations (i.e., U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) to comply with government project

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About us: 

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™ 

Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on X. 

The PPG Way 2030  

We are customer champions 

Proactive. Bold. Trustworthy. Everything we do starts with our customers. We listen, move fast and don’t stop until we solve their biggest challenges. When our customers win, we all grow. 

We act with purpose and speed 

Agile. Data-driven. Empowered. We take smart risks to stay ahead of the competition. We work proactively with agility, using quality data to develop solutions that create value.  

We are excellent operators 

Productive. Collaborative. Accountable. No matter our role, we identify problems, take ownership and always bring solutions. We are both proactive and responsive to drive continuous improvement and deliver results. We support our frontline, the faces of PPG to our customers.   

We compete to win 

Future-focused. Driven. Ambitious. We are passionate about growing our business and winning with our customers. We deliver results, embrace new technologies and leverage agility and speed as strengths. 

We are PPG proud 

Strong. United. Passionate. We work safely, act with integrity and value our diverse perspectives. We celebrate achievements and take pride in the positive impact we create together to protect and beautify the world. 

At PPG we use AI in the hiring process to make the process more efficient. AI tools do not make hiring decisions. You can learn more by going to  https://careers.ppg.com/us/en/candidate-resources.  

PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.  

If you need an adjustment due to a disability, please email recruiting@ppg.com. 

PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply.  
Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.  Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process. 

PPG values your feedback on our recruiting process. We encourage you to visit Glassdoor.com and provide feedback on the process, so that we can do better today than yesterday.